When it comes to the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 vs. the Galaxy Watch Active 2, it is hard to determine which watch is the best. 

If you go by specifications alone, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 is the winner as it has more storage, speed, and battery life. For users into a more active lifestyle, the Active 2 is a better choice for its advanced exercise functions.

Continue reading to examine a breakdown between the two watches to know which one is better for you.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 and Galaxy Watch Active 2: Which is Better?

Both the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 and Galaxy Watch Active 2 are amazing smart watches for most people. They have many of the same specifications, but where there are differences, there are major differences.

When it comes down to the specs, there is not a lot of difference between these two watches. It is only after digging deeper that it becomes apparent that the newer Galaxy Watch 3 has more functionality and applications built into the watch than the Active 2. This makes it pricier and the luxury version of the two.

The basic specs are easy to read in a chart. It is a great way to make a quick comparison. When it comes to understanding these watches, the truth is in the details. Keep reading to learn more about each watch’s abilities in the above categories to understand which watch is right for your needs.

Traditional vs. Modern Design

The first thing you will notice is that each watch has completely different looks. The Galaxy Watch 3 has a traditional and professional watch design. It comes paired with timeless bands in materials such as leather or fabric. The metal accents and textured face mimics that of popular luxury brand watches you can buy at a jewelry store. It screams sophistication.

The Active 2 is a great watch and also has a sleek design. This watch has a design that is simpler, sleek, and no-nonsense. It is also considered a more fun-looking watch due to the array of different colors that it comes in. If you like to match your watch to your outfit, the Active 2 has many more fun options when accessorizing. 

4GB vs. 8GB Memory Storage

The Active 2 does not have the same amount of storage capacity as the Galaxy Watch 3. This can be impactful if you plan to get many notifications or send many messages through your smartwatch. It can also affect music storage and app storage on the device. If you are actively using the watch, then it may be better to get the watch with more storage capability.

Identical Battery Life

Both watches have the same batteries for their larger and smaller models. This means you will get the same charge and hours of use out of each watch, no matter which you choose. 

Generally, these watches will have about 40 hours of battery life.

If the battery is a big deal, it depends on how you plan to use the watch. Both batteries will suffer equally.

ECG Tracking

If you are interested in keeping an eye on your heart rate and rhythm, then either watch is appropriate. Both watches have the newest ECG tracking technology and use a health app to keep the results. They will also alert you if a worrisome heart rate or rhythm is detected.

There’s also a plethora of other health tracking methods that can be used with the Samsung Watch 3.

Sports Tracker and Exercise Metrics

Both smartwatches can track sports and exercise activities. If you start a walk, you can count on these watches to track the miles walked, steps walked, and your heart rate during the run. If you are looking for more advanced metrics and stats, you need to grab the Active 2. This watch is geared toward working out, while the Galaxy Watch 3 is for productivity. 

Fall Detection

If you are looking to buy a watch for someone who has a hard time walking, or has a history of falls, then either option will work just fine. This is because both watches have the fall detection feature built into them. This feature will alert emergency services if it detects a fall and does not get a response quickly to ensure the user is safe.

Sleep Tracking

If you have been having a hard time sleeping and want a comfortable watch to help you track it, then either watch will allow you to do that. Each watch has a sleep tracking function you can adjust and see results in with a quick tap on the main screen.

Phone Notifications

The Galaxy Watch 3 and Active 2 both allow your smartphone to send notifications to the watch. This allows you to work out or work without pulling your phone out every few minutes to see the newest news or gossip. These notifications can be adjusted in the menu center to match your preferences. 

LTE

IF you are interested in using your smartwatch to make phone calls or send or receive text messages, then you will be happy to know either watch can come with this capability. However, it is important to note that you need to buy a watch with this built-in feature as some are WiFi only. This also means it will require a data plan to function appropriately.

Price

If you compare the two watches based on price, the Galaxy Watch 3 will come in as the more expensive luxury model while the Active 2 will ring in as the more affordable model. Although the latter is more affordable, it does lack some key functionality and features that the Galaxy Watch 3 does have. If this is important to you, then it might be worth the extra money if this is important to you.

And The Winner Is…

When it comes to the ultimate package with all the bells and whistles, go with the Galaxy Watch 3. If you are more worried about attractive color, a comfortable watch band, and price, then the Active 2 is the better option. Both are phenomenal watches; it all comes down to personal preference.